HISTORIC TRIANGLE — While snow is moving out of the area, cold weather continues throughout the Historic Triangle.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a cold weather advisory that goes into effect from Thursday, Feb. 20 from 10 p.m. until 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 21.
Temperatures are not expected to rise above 40 until Saturday, Feb. 22.
A Cold Weather Advisory is issued when seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values, but not extremely cold values, are expected or occurring.
As the winter storm continues to impact all roads of travel throughout the Hampton Roads Area, the Virginia State Police continue to urge motorists to stay off the roadways and avoid all travel if possible.
The majority of the incidents are of motorists who have spun out of control, driving too fast for weather conditions.
Motorists are reminded to keep a safe distance from snowplows and allow VDOT to clear roadways safely.
VDOT said as of midday Thursday, interstates in Hampton Roads are in clear to minor condition with some snow and slush still visible along portions of the roadway. However, with snow removal operations still taking place on the shoulders, caution that motorists should use extreme caution while traveling.
Crews are actively treating and plowing the interstates, state-maintained primaries, and have also moved on to high-volume secondary routes in the Williamsburg, Eastern Shore and rural western portions of the region, VDOT added.
With freezing temperatures forecasted through Friday, any moisture remaining on the pavement could result in slick or icy conditions on the roadways, particularly on bridges, ramps, overpasses and shaded areas that typically freeze first, VDOT said, and cautioned wet spots on the road should be considered ice.
VDOT said due to high snowfall accumulation and freezing temperatures, multi-day operations will continue into Friday, with roads that carry the most traffic getting top priority.
Power Outage Preparation
Dominion Energy urges customers to stay safe and prepare for potential power outages.
Trees and tree limbs are the No. 1 reason for outages across our the region. Potential for snow and ice accumulation as temperatures change can cause trees and limbs to fall on power lines.
Fallen trees, limbs, and power lines as well as icy roads create dangerous travel conditions, which can prolong power outages.
If you lose power, there are three easy ways to report your outage and track your restoration time: 1) Dominion Energy mobile app; 2) Dominion Energy website; or 3) Call (866) DOM-HELP.
Stay away from downed power lines. If you see a downed pole or wire, report it by calling (866) DOM-HELP and stay at least 30 feet away. The line could be energized and dangerous.
Fully charge devices. Fully charge phones, computers and other electronic devices before the storm arrives. Consider purchasing portable batteries to extend the life of devices.
Properly connect your generator. If you have a generator, make sure it is fueled, tested, and properly connected before the storm arrives, and always operate it outdoors with good ventilation.
Prepare food, water, and emergency supplies. For any storm, it’s always good to have bottled water and non-perishable food on hand, as well as emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries, first aid kits and medications.
Car and Home Tips
As temps drop into the low teens, preparation for homes and vehicles is important.
State Police urge motorists to slow down for road and weather conditions, use headlights for visibility, and give plenty of distance between themselves and other vehicles.
Be cognizant of ALL emergency vehicles; police, fire and rescue, VDOT, and tow truck drivers. Slow down or move over as emergency personnel assist others.
Create a winter survival kit for all vehicles. Include extra clothes, blankets, a flashlight, sand or cat litter to aid with traction.
Ensure that each vehicle has a full tank of gas and has been topped off with antifreeze and windshield washer fluid. Tire pressure, heaters and defrosters should also be checked.
Let a small amount of water drip from a fixture that is furthest away from the water supply line. In addition, leave cabinet doors open under sinks so heat can reach the pipes. Turn off water supply to outside spigots, remove hoses and attachments and cover the spigots.
Know where the emergency water shut-off valve is located in case of frozen pipes or pipe bursts.
Dressing for Cold Weather
When dressing for extreme cold weather, layers are key. Choose a base layer of moisture-wicking fabric that will help draw sweat away from skin. For a mid-layer, fleece, down, or wool are recommended to trap heat. The outer layer of clothing should be waterproof and windproof and offer protection from the elements.
Other clothing items to consider include long underwear, wool socks, a warm hat that can cover the ears, mittens, gloves, scarves, and insulated boots.
Pet Safety
Virginia law prohibits leaving dogs chained or tethered outside when the temperature is 32 degrees or below. Experts warn dogs who are kept permanently chained and penned outside or outdoor cats can often go without adequate food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. Animals who are left outdoors in the cold can suffer from frostbite and exposure, and dogs who are kept tethered can become tangled and die when they’re unable to reach food, water, or shelter.
When putting down ice melt, be conscious of buying pet-safe brands. Dogs often lick their paws, and it’s easier to ingest things, like ice and snow melt, that they’ve stepped on. Using a pet-safe ice and snow melt can be just as effective, and help keep your dog safe in the event that they do trail some inside.
Good Samaritans who see companion animals kept chained or penned outside 24/7 or without adequate shelter from the elements should note the animals’ exact location and alert local law-enforcement authorities immediately.
Resources
Shelters are open in the area. Community of Faith Mission is a faith-based emergency shelter program that serves those experiencing homelessness in the greater Williamsburg community.
Williamsburg United Methodist Church is hosting the shelter until Feb. 23.
Hickory Neck Episcopal Church in Toano hosts Feb. 23 through March 2.
The shelter is open Sunday-Sunday from 6:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. The program operates with a maximum capacity of 25 people per night.
For the most up-to-date information on cold weather, visit vaemergency.gov.